Frog on a [B]log

Frog on a Blog is the site of children's picture book author Lauri Fortino and her frog friend Finley. You will find oodles of picture book related content on the pages of this blog. If you like to read, write, or share picture books, then you will like this blog! (Image by Jonas Sickler)

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About Me (and Finley Frog)

Lauri Fortino

My name is Lauri and I work as a Library Assistant at the busy Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesvillein DeWitt, NY. I am a huge picture book and pop-up book fan. I’m also a children’s picture book author.

My debut picture book The Peddler’s Bed, published by the fabulous Ripple Grove Press, is available now. It’s illustrated by the incredibly talented Bong Redila.

I grew up in Canastota, NY with my twin sister and four other siblings. I have a degree in Library and Information Services, as well as a certificate with Highest Honors in Writing Stories For Children. I’m also a graduate of the Children’s Book Academy, and a member of SCBWI, ALA,CBI Clubhouse, and Julie Hedlund’s12×12.

I am married to a wonderful man, Chris, who holds a fifth-degree black belt in karate. I love to play with our little dog, Java. And in my spare time I enjoy blogging, reading, and Japanese anime.

I am also a strong proponent of the benefits of reading, for people of all ages, but especially for children. If children are introduced to books and reading early on and throughout their growing-up years, I know that they will become strong readers. The best way to start is by reading picture books.

Many of us take reading for granted, but did you know that some people can’t read street signs, or menus, or cereal boxes, let alone job applications, instruction manuals, or other important documents. So parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and siblings, read picture books with the children in your lives often. Remember, some picture books are meant for children all the way up to the age of eight or nine. And some people never lose their love for these wonderful and important works of art. Just look at me!

Literacy is the jump-off point from which all of life’s successes take flight.

Finley is THE Frog On A Blog. He is a friendly, playful frog with a wacky fashion sense. He is the main character in my children’s story entitled Fabulous Finley.

As much as Finley loves his fabulous coat, what he wants most of all is a friend. One day, his wish comes true; he meets Chelsey. When Chelsey becomes sick and loses all of her hair, Finley sticks by her side and finds the perfect way to help his best friend.

The views expressed on Frog on a Blog are solely my own and do not necessarily represent the views of the Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesville.

Thank you Pat. It’s a tough business and you have to have a thick skin. But it’s hard not to take rejections personally. I know that all authors get rejected, children’s book authors included. And for many, it can literally take years to get an acceptance. Once you get your foot in the door, a whole new world can open up for you.

I was in the neighborhood, so, I thought I’d drop by. It’s great to see you and The Finster again. He sure looks flush in his fine fur! Chelsey the Chipmunk is blessed to have such a loyal friend.

During this visit I clicked on “about me” and was very happy to hear of your success in the 2008 ABC’s Children’s Picture Book Competition. Well Done! Finley already has a following, and there’s no doubt in my mind that some savvy publisher will accept your series. Finley’s sweet and adventurous nature, unique fashion sense, and wonderful group of friends will soon be enjoyed by lots and lots of little ones (and big ones, too)!

My apologies for posting in your comment section, but I didn’t see a contact link.

My name is Jennifer Rustgi. I am familiar with your blog and know that you are an influencer in the field of Children’s Literature. I’m a children’s book author, and I’m reaching out to you to request a favor of sorts: I’m looking for bloggers who could help me spread the word on a project. I live in Austin, Tx. now but, coincidentally, I grew up in Central NY (DeRuyter) and still have friends and family in the area.

I’m self-publishing a children’s picture book titled Much Too Much, and my illustrating partner and I are using Kickstarter to help fund us to get to publication. Kickstarter is a way to essentially get people to “preorder” by pledging money toward your project. We’re not just asking for a handout, we’re offering great rewards for pledges. For example, at the $25 reward level, you’ll get a signed, first-edition copy of our book! If you’re curious and want to learn more, check out our Kickstarter page here. We’re based in Austin but not limiting our reach to only local readers.

You could help us get the word out about our fun project by simply sharing a link on social media or a quick post on Frog on a Blog. We’re hoping to appeal to parents of small children who would be interested in supporting a creative endeavor (while getting something unique in return). We’d greatly appreciate any help!

Hi, Jennifer, I’m happy to help! I’ll post a link to your Kickstarter page right here on Frog on a Blog. My blog is linked to my Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts, so the post will appear in those places as well. I read your story and think it’s great! And Molly’s illustrations are beautiful too. Good luck, I hope you reach your goal and are able to bring your picture book to life!

Thanks so much, Christie! And congratulations to you too; I believe I read on your blog that you have a contract as well. That’s awesome! And by all means, use my quote however you wish. Thanks for taking the time to comment here.

Thank you Lauri for posting information to help unpublished writers. I always think of Dr. Seuss receiving 27 rejections before he was published. Look how great his career turned out. Congratulations on signing with Ripple Grove Press. I’m going to continue to write and submit my stories. Thanks for the help. Ali

Hi, Ali, I’m glad you like Frog on a Blog and find it helpful. That’s great to hear! I try to remember that all writers get rejections, sometimes just one, sometimes hundreds. But if writing is something you love to do and your dream is to get published, then don’t give up. Good luck!

Frog on a [B]log

Frog on a Blog is the site of children's picture book author Lauri Fortino and her frog friend Finley. You will find oodles of picture book related content on the pages of this blog. If you like to read, write, or share picture books, then you will like this blog! (Image by Jonas Sickler)

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Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.